Manchester City were met with hostile chants and banners accusing them of cheating when they arrived at Anfield to face Liverpool on Sunday, following an independent commission’s verdict that the club had breached Premier League financial regulations.
The October 11 encounter marked City’s first match since the verdict, which found the club guilty of the majority of the financial-rule charges brought against them. City have denied wrongdoing and are appealing the decision.
Liverpool supporters gathered around Anfield ahead of the match, displaying banners and scarves mocking City over the case. Some fans chanted “cheats” and “going down”, while one banner read, “A Generation of Supporters Cheated”.
The anger reflects the long-running rivalry between the two clubs, particularly during the years when Manchester City and Liverpool competed closely for Premier League titles. Liverpool supporters argue that the alleged financial breaches cast a shadow over City’s achievements during that period.
The independent commission found that City had breached financial regulations over a nine-season period between 2009 and 2018. The case centred on allegations involving financial reporting and commercial arrangements, among other matters.
Potential sanctions could include a points deduction or other significant disciplinary measures. However, no punishment has yet been imposed, as City continue to challenge the ruling through an appeal process.
Despite the controversy surrounding the club, City responded on the pitch with a commanding 3–0 victory over Liverpool. Erling Haaland opened the scoring before Jeremy Doku and Rayan Cherki added further goals, while Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch was sent off in the second half.
The result allowed City to leave Anfield with all three points, even as questions about the financial case continued to dominate discussions around English football.
The controversy is expected to remain a major talking point as supporters await the outcome of City’s appeal and any eventual disciplinary action.
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